Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Do I really need to rehearse my interviewing skills and answers?

While doing some personal research on interviewing techniques, I have come across some very good information pertaining to ones ability to communicate well during an interview. From the very moment you are able to see your interviewer, your body language begins to send a message. They are already starting to form an opinion about who you are to them and whether or not your a good fit for the position.

It's important to NOT try and "WING" an interview because you think you know what they are going to ask you. You need to prepare a list of common questions that you have been asked in the past and of items that would be important to an interviewer. One way to figure out what your interviewer wants is by studying their Job Post Description. Look at what it says. Pay particular attention to the items that are repeated over and over. These are the items they really care about - A LOT. Make sure that you prepare your answers to questions about these items. You may end up using these items to tailor your discussion as you explain your qualifications. Make sure that you are truthfully representing yourself.

Use a video camera and watch your body language. Have a friend do an interview with you and video record it. Look at how you are sitting. Listen to the tone of your voice as you answer questions. Look at your gestures. Do you appear Happy? Evaluate yourself. Would you hire you? Ask your friend to provide feedback on what their thoughts are. Pick someone who would be a good critic.

You need to to develop your "A Game".

We need to interview at a level that is more professional and proactive in today's economy than ever before. We need to be Masters of communication and perform to a higher standard.

If you would like more information on issues such as body language and communication, please check out "Impact Hiring Solutions" on LinkedIn. They are a great source for this type of information and are ready to help.

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